With its reputation for solid and reliable automobiles well established, the Mercedes-Benz 220 models, internally designated W128, were a definite cut above the entry-level 180-Series cars, which entered production in the early 1950s. Starting in 1954, a number of six-cylinder variants capitalized on the growing demand among buyers for increased power. The 220 (1954 to 1956), the 219 (1956 to 1959), 220S (1956 to 1959) and 220SE (1959 to 1960) provided abundant horsepower and torque, packaged in the smaller body style. Only the 220S (Super) and 220SE (Super, Fuel Injected) engines were available in the top-of-the-line cabriolet design.

The 220SE coupe and cabriolet were luxuriously appointed and trimmed, offering many of the amenities associated with Mercedes-Benz’s limited-production 300-series cars. The dash, door finish and other parts of the hand-built interior were covered in wood veneers of fabulous burled grain accents. Seats and interior trim were superior Roser surface-dyed leather hides, complemented by the highest-quality Wilton wool carpets. The ultimate W128 model was the 220SE Cabriolet, introduced in 1959 and produced during a short time frame through October 1960. Only 1,112 of the highly respected 220SE cabriolets were built. Priced from $8,091 when new, the 220SE Cabriolet was similar in cost to Cadillac’s contemporary Eldorado Biarritz Convertible. For the period, this was an astronomical price; a new Rolls-Royce or Ferrari was only marginally more expensive at approximately $12,000 in cost.

This 1959 Cabriolet sports a 2.2-liter inline six, fuel-injected, 135-hp engine with a manual four-speed transmission. The Metallic Mercedes Green exterior and Saddle MB-Tex are very complementary and allows this Mercedes to stand proudly amongst its contemporaries. This 220SE is reported to have been owned by the same caring collector for 35 years in the fine enclave of Malibu, California. It carries an older restoration; however, the Mercedes-Benz presents very well and has been garage-kept, well-cared-for and exercised regularly by its sympathetic and caring owner. This fine example also includes a replacement owner’s manual.